Intouch Monitoring Blog | A Paperless Shop Floor Requires Tech and Talent
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In today’s highly digital world, most of us rely heavily on technology in our day-to-day lives. As a result, there is a growing number of people suffering from Nomophobia – the fear or anxiety of not having a functioning mobile phone. In this blog, InTouch explains how transitioning to a paperless shop floor involves integrating technology, leveraging real-time data, and training your workforce for optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Businesses are constantly looking for more efficient processes and technologies that can improve performance, reduce costs, and maintain a competitive edge. Often this desire to use tech to improve efficiency is seen as a threat by the talent you employ.
Achieving the goal of a paperless shop floor is not just about eliminating paper; it requires a harmonious blend of technology and talent. And provides considerably more efficient processes along with real-time data, upon which you can make faster, more informed decisions.
The Challenge of Process: The people behind the system
While the integration of technology is undoubtedly a significant step towards creating a paperless shop floor, the underlying processes that govern these technologies are equally crucial.
Many organisations face challenges when adopting and implementing new technologies, primarily because their existing processes need to be aligned or workflows changed with the capabilities of the new systems.
Implementing production monitoring software that provides real-time data, that can enable data-driven decision-making is not a silver bullet, success requires the inclusion of talent.
People are the backbone of manufacturing operations and need to be trained, not just on the technology but on the new processes as well.
It’s the combination of efficient processes, advanced technology, and a knowledgeable workforce that truly drives success in a digital manufacturing environment.
Managers and leaders must recognise that the synergy between people and processes is pivotal to overall success. Overlooking the importance of redesigning processes or neglecting the necessary support and training for the workforce. can lead to inefficiencies and under-utilisation of the technology.
Done well, technology will improve job satisfaction and free staff up to focus on other important activities within the business.
The role of Production Monitoring software in a paperless shop floor
1. Real-time Visibility: Production monitoring software offers real-time insights into the manufacturing process. This instant visibility helps managers and supervisors identify bottlenecks, monitor machine performance, and ensure that production timelines are met.
2. Reducing Waste: By digitizing the production process, businesses can significantly reduce material waste. Digital systems can optimize raw material usage, ensuring minimal waste and reduced costs.
3. Improved Accuracy: Handwritten notes or manual entry can lead to errors. Digital systems reduce the likelihood of these mistakes, leading to more accurate production data and better decision-making. See how Petford Group improved their OEE by 16% following the removal of manual record keeping
4. Data-driven Decisions: With the vast amount of data collected by monitoring software, businesses can make more informed decisions. This data-driven approach can lead to improved processes, reduced downtime, and increased profitability.
5. Reduced downtime on the shop floor: Downtime can be a significant cost to any manufacturing business. Thus identifying where the downtime hotspots are enables manufacturers to reduce the time machines and processes are not fully operational. See how Russell Roof Tiles achieved this.
The importance of data in a paperless environment
Data is the backbone of the digital revolution in manufacturing. Collecting, analysing, and leveraging this data effectively is what sets successful businesses apart.
1. Predictive Maintenance: Data analytics can help you understand when machinery is likely to fail or require maintenance. This proactive approach can save businesses significant amounts of money. Therefore preventing unplanned downtime, whilst enabling them to plan for maintenance in the most optimal way.
2. Continuous Improvement: By continuously analysing production data, companies can identify areas for improvement, be it in efficiency, quality, or cost. This enables a more dynamic and continuous improvement based strategy.
3. Enhancing Product Quality: Data can be used to monitor product quality in real-time, ensuring that any deviations from the standard are quickly addressed. This links to the reduction of waste.
The talent behind the tech
While technology plays a pivotal role, it’s the human talent in your business that truly drives a paperless shop floor. It’s essential to have a team that understands both the technological aspects and the practical implications of implementing such a system.
1. Training and development: It’s vital to invest in training programs to upskill workers, ensuring they are comfortable with the digital tools and systems.
2. Hiring for the Future: As the industry moves towards a more digital approach, it’s crucial to hire individuals with a tech-savvy mindset, who can drive innovation and actively engage with the technologies that can improve shop floor performance.
3. Cultivating a culture of continuous learning: With technology constantly evolving, businesses should promote a culture where employees are encouraged to learn and adapt.
Are you ready for a paperless shop floor?
Transitioning to a paperless shop floor is not just about eliminating paper, its about integrating the right technology, harnessing the power of data, and ensuring that the talent utilising the tech are trained in its use.
The combination of production monitoring software that delivers real-time data will propel manufacturing businesses into a more efficient and cost-effective future, but the real success comes from taking your talent on this journey with you.
Read more from Intouch here.
